Skip to main content

Pierce Through Your Past and Control Your Future

 




Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga 


Why do we feel indebted to the past? The truth is, ideologies, cultural norms, and resource allocation models that were relevant yesterday may no longer serve us today. Resolutions made in the past can become outdated, leading to diminishing benefits and a struggle to make a meaningful living.


The only way to break free from this cycle is to forge new resolutions, seek fresh resources, and chart a new course. It’s futile to cling to the past, as it’s a place we no longer inhabit.


Here are five reasons why we often find ourselves stuck in the past:


1. The Gospel of Self-Reliance is Discouraged: We’re often conditioned to prioritize others’ expectations over our own aspirations. It’s essential to reclaim our autonomy and make choices that align with our values.

2. Culture is Regarded as Compulsory, Yet it’s Dynamic: Cultural norms evolve over time. What was relevant in the past may no longer be beneficial today. It’s crucial to adapt and adopt new mechanisms that offer improved benefits.

3. Fear of Being an Outcast: Breaking away from the norm can lead to social ostracism. However, it’s essential to prioritize our own growth and well-being, even if it means embracing our individuality.

4. Fear of the Unknown: Venturing into uncharted territory can be daunting. However, it’s often necessary for growth and progress.

5. Crafting Our Own Survival Feels Like Disobedience: We’re often taught to follow established rules and norms. However, true freedom lies in creating our own path and forging our own survival strategies.


The fact that we each have unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths means we shouldn’t be bound by the same limitations. It’s not a crime to innovate and create a winning formula. In fact, it’s often necessary for success.


As the saying goes, “You have to work for it, you have to be innovative to live.” So, let’s break free from the shackles of the past and forge a brighter, more empowering future.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

In loving memory of Mrs. Josephine Machuma (Nee Matongo)

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga   Mrs. Machuma played a pivotal role in shaping my Christian values and that of many during her time as a Sunday School teacher at St. Stephen United Methodist Church in the early 80s. Her catechism teachings strengthened my faith in the birth and death of Jesus Christ, and her picturesque illustrations of God’s omnipotence and omniscience remain vivid in my mind. As a dedicated teacher with stints at Zengeza 5 and 8 Primary Schools, Mrs. Machuma was known for her blunt yet nurturing approach. She would candidly address shortcomings, and her passion for education was evident. Many students, including myself, benefited from her guidance, and I’m sure many share my sentiments about her calling to educate. Together with her husband, Mr. Shepherd Machuma, the family embodied the good teachings of John Wesley. Their union, bound by vows of love and commitment, was a testament to the power of marriage. Even in separation, their love remains unwaver...

United Methodist Church: A Path of Continuous Improvement

   Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga  As a product of the United Methodist Church, I've come to realize the immense value of the administrative, business and leadership skills that the church imparts. Initially, I didn't appreciate these aspects, but after exploring other denominations, I returned to the United Methodist Church, recognizing its exceptional leadership development opportunities. The church's reporting system has had a profound impact on my self-development, and the process of worship, family ministering, and starting new churches has equipped me with replicable skills that I've applied to my daily life. Through the United Methodist Church, I've developed strong decision-making skills, strategic thinking, and effective communication. These skills have, in turn, fostered my commitment to transparency and social justice, which are now core values that I uphold in all my endeavors. I've come to expect accountability and fairness in any group or associa...

Love, Sex, and Marriage: Three Sides of the Same Coin

  Written by Fred Farai Nyakudanga In today’s society, the lines between love, sex, and marriage are often blurred. Sex has been commercialized and portrayed as a pleasurable act, while love is taught through upbringing and personal experiences. Marriage, on the other hand, has become a duty where two people often find themselves tied together due to sex and social prestige. Love vs. Sex Sex is a natural instinct, while love is a cultivated emotion that allows us to accommodate someone who is not ourselves. As I often say in my sessions with young adults, every creature that reproduces enjoys sex. However, it’s love that sets us apart. We can plan and work on love, tolerating and forgiving someone who is different from us. Love disciplines us on who to have sex with, and mutual desire is a design of our own making. While sex and love are interconnected, they serve different purposes. Sex is driven by inner feelings that aim to satisfy reproduction, whereas love is a choice that req...